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![Mortarless masonry: (a) dry-stacked-voussoir "Striding Arch" by Andy Goldsworthy; (b, c) interlocking hollow blocks; (d) osteomorphic blocks [53] (d,e); earth retaining systems; (g-i) paving blocks; All photographs and images by the authors except (d) -CC by 2.0 Armcon Precast.](profile/Kevin-Farries/publication/349064673/figure/fig2/AS:988002016837632@1612569445142/Mortarless-masonry-a-dry-stacked-voussoir-Striding-Arch-by-Andy-Goldsworthy-b-c.png)
Mortarless masonry: (a) dry-stacked-voussoir "Striding Arch" by Andy Goldsworthy; (b, c) interlocking hollow blocks; (d) osteomorphic blocks [53] (d,e); earth retaining systems; (g-i) paving blocks; All photographs and images by the authors except (d) -CC by 2.0 Armcon Precast.
Source publication
Construction of lunar habitats and civil structures using masonry units, laser-processed from lunar regolith, can be achieved using accessible and abundant in-situ materials and energy resources. The process is robust, easily automated and minimises the need to import heavy equipment from earth. It is possible to construct launch pads, habitats, ro...
Context in source publication
Citations
This paper presents the results of laboratory studies on the use of a new technology of selective laser melting to obtain experimental products from the lunar regolith without special additives. The main properties of the natural regolith, which significantly affect the fusion process, are determined. The first samples of a given geometry were obtained from labradorite and gabbro-diabase powders, which are natural analogues of lunar regolith, using this technology. The research results are planned to be used in the preparation of initial data for the development of the Lunar Printer space device as part of the complex of scientific equipment of the promising lunar project Luna-Grunt.
Low-cost robust processes are needed to produce construction materials for habitats and civil infrastructure in the early stages of the development of a permanent base on the moon. Sintered or melted regolith (SoMR) is an attractive solution as it requires only regolith and solar energy as inputs, both of which are readily available on the moon. This paper presents a review of SoMR technologies. It also provides an evaluation of the different technologies based on the results of experimental studies of SoMR production which were identified in the literature. The key outcomes of these experimental trials are summarised, and the viability of each process for the production of lunar construction materials is evaluated. Finally, future research which would address current technical challenges and uncertainties is suggested.
